Climate Adaptation

Forest Adaptation

Maintaining forest function and value in the upper Delaware River Region as the climate changes

Forests are always changing. Most trees grow larger each year; some die. Seeds spread in many ways, and they become new trees, or food for other creatures. Weather changes across days, seasons, and years. It has always made sense to keep these changes in mind as you consider how to best manage your woods. But climate change complicates this variability, even as it makes managing forests more important.

The climate—the patterns of weather over time—is changing in the upper Delaware River Region. We are seeing warmer, wetter winters, more frequent heavy rains, hotter summers, and more variable weather. These changes have been happening over the last several decades, and are projected to intensify over the coming years.

This woodland adaptation guide details how forests are likely to change over the next several decades and describes actions you can take as a landowner or resource manager. It’s meant to be a useful menu of management activities; much of what you do will depend on your specific goals, situation, and forest. Most of the recommendations are elements of good forest management, regardless of a changing climate. As weather becomes more variable from historic patterns, healthy and diverse forests will be better able to withstand the more frequent stresses associated with climate change.

You can also download two-page summary documents with state-specific resource links for NJ, NY, or PA.

This webinar discusses local climate change impacts and recommended strategies for adapting to these changes.

Follow the links to connect with resources on forest ecology and management, and find people—either at state agencies, nonprofits, or in private consulting—who can help you practice better forest management to keep your woods healthy in the face of climate change and other challenges.